The Grand Lobby

Right in the center of the Grand Lobby, and seen from every level, is the fire pot and flame that symbolizes the tribe's role as "Keeper of the Fire." In the tribe's history, the Potawatomi, Ottawa and Chippewa existed as one nation. They received a prophecy to "move west toward the setting sun" and consequently migrated along the St. Lawrence River, settling near Lake Huron and Sault St. Marie. There they divided into the three nations known today as Chippewa, Ottawa and Potawatomi. The Chippewa became the "Keeper of the Faith" and the Ottawa became the "Keeper of the Trade". Potawatomi became the "Keeper of the Sacred Fire" and were responsible for maintaining the spiritual and cultural traditions of the people.

The Grand Lobby, which corresponds to this story, is majestic in size and meaning, rising 90-feet to the roof and 120-feet to the tip of the flame on the casino's exterior. Four colors, white, red, black and yellow lie in each direction and represent the four seasons of nature. The flame in the center of the firepot is made of synthetic silk lit with flame colored lights and a fan below to create motion. Theses effects make the Grand Lobby visible for miles. Above, a metallic structure hangs from the ceiling and symbolizes smoke. Below, water rushes at the base of the fire pot and down the pillars in each direction.

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